Can you tour West Point Academy as a member of the public?

I'm interested in visiting West Point Academy and wanted to know if they offer public tours. How do you go about booking a tour, and what can you expect to see during the visit?

Yes, you can tour the United States Military Academy at West Point as a member of the public. The Academy has visitor guidelines on their official website detailing the process for booking a tour. Before you visit, make sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information since tour availability can sometimes change due to COVID-19 restrictions or other events happening on the campus.

These tours are coordinated by the West Point Tours, Inc., which operates from the Visitor Center. You have the option of joining guided bus tours, which typically run a couple of times every day. The tours usually last about 1-2 hours and cover a variety of points of interest on the campus.

Some of the key sights you can expect to see during a guided bus tour might include the Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point (which provides an expansive view of the Hudson River), the West Point Cemetery, and the campus grounds. You'll also likely learn about the Academy's history, traditions, and its role in training future leaders for the U.S. Army.

Remember to carry a government-issued ID as all adults will require it to enter the campus. It's also worth noting that these tours can be quite popular, so it's best to book in advance to secure your spot. You can do this through the West Point Tours, Inc. website.

As with any tour, it's best to come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful and historic campus!